Take a look at the past challenges and if you are bored, you can always use them as an inspiration, and/or to find some buildings you would like to download to your game.

Every fortnight week, we offer a specific building request for builders of all levels to tackle in their own unique way. We offer different levels of experience, and those who enter receive (at the very least because it's usually many more) one rec and a download for your work.

This Week’s Challenge Specifics:
This first week’s challenge actually consists of two projects - creating a sim and home office or community office lot. You must create a sim that will be your designer throughout the challenges as well as an office for your Sim to work out of.

The Sim:
Create a representative for your building firm. This may be a “simself” or a pretty face for the public. Your sim may be uploaded with the lot or separately (from the sim bin).

The Lot:
Create your building firm. It can be a community lot or “home business.” It can be as big or small as you want on whichever size lot works best for you. You may also choose the style of your building (ie. ultra-modern, country, etc). Also create a name for your firm. This is the name we will associate with you and all of your builds in the Build-n-Share challenges. You should include this name in the description of your lot when you upload it to The Exchange.

Design Brief:
-Create a sim or simself to be the face of your Sims 4 interior design company.
-Create a community lot office or home office for your sim to work from.
-Show pictures of your sim in the office setting.
-There is no budget for this challenge - let's see how creative you can get and make the most of the new build tools and buy options

FORUM ID: onikisu
GALLERY ID: onikisu
SIM: Shawn Storms and Linda Walker
OFFICE: Onyx Design Co. 2
LINK TO ENTRY SLIDESHOW: https://imgur.com/a/pYi16#0
CREDIT FOR CC/RECOLORS: No CC's were used while making the house or the characters.

It was the sound of unending barking that drew you back to the surface, away from the depths of the design you were working on for an architectural magazine. As the creative fog lifts from your brain, you realize you recognize the sound of that bark. Its Rose’s little dog. Weird. Usually the dog is very quiet and never barks at people. With a sigh you get up to go see why the barking hasn't been stopped yet.

Stepping to the doorway, you see a tableau that makes you pause.

Rose is sitting at her desk, looking like she’s struggling to maintain her “meet the client” friendly composure. Leaning against her desk, flashing a charming smile, is a man you vaguely recognize from a magazine cover. Rose’s little dog has deserted her usual post to back into a corner where she can see everything and bark at this new human male. “Rose?” You inquire uncertainly, concerned.

The look on Rose’s face as she looks over at you is one of blissful relief. You however, only hear the honking of a horn and the screech of tires that comes with being thrown under the bus. “Wonderful timing! Mr. Curtis here was just telling me what kind of house he wants!”

‘Curtis…Curtis…Oh no…’ You think, realizing who he is.

Douglas Curtis the Third, famous adventurer, explorer and vaguely associated with Archaeology. His tall, khaki wearing and very broad shouldered presence graced more than a few of the magazines you've seen. Many a young lady has sighed over his chiselled good looks, thick sun bleached blonde hair and deeply tanned skin. His charming and schmoozy personality has enjoyed a lot of TV coverage and there seemed to be no end to the self propagandizing articles about his exploits.

Forcing a smile on your face, and responding to the demands of friendship, you hold out your hand. “Mr Curtis. Its nice to meet you. Why don't we go back into my office and talk about what you’re looking for?”

With a wink and a charming smile, he tilts his head in Rose’s direction. “Think I already have.” Fortunately his eyes are on you so he misses the roll of eyes that Rose gives. “Anyway, what I've got in mind is actually a number of challenges for the right architect. Starting off with a new home. I'm moving to Willow Creek and I want a home worthy of being my home base. I've been all over the world so I don't have any real style preferences, just something that will showcase my artefacts, finds and trophies. Money inst really a problem. But something…penthouse like. Perhaps 2 bedrooms, including the master suite. I throw a lot of parties so the place has to be impressive…Great kitchen, formal dining, office, living room…if there's a balcony it needs to be set up for entertaining…”

“Sounds rather detailed Mr. Curtis. Does it need to be an apartment?” You ask, jotting notes down on the pad of paper Rose handed you.

“I hadn't really decided but you know what? The more I think about it the more I like the idea. Yes. I’d like it to be a penthouse.”

“Okay. What about budget?”

“Would 150K be too modest?” He tosses a wink at Rose.

“I think we can put something together in a couple weeks for you.” You say, trying to draw his attention back to you.

He straightens up and shakes your hand, “Great. I'm headed to Al Simhara tomorrow anyway. Cant wait to see it when its done.” He hands a card to Rose, “But if you want to get that drink I’ll put off my trip for you…” Gives another blindingly white smile, before he lets you show him out.

Returning to Rose’s desk, you pick up the card and study it. Then turn and offer it to the approaching dog. The little animal sniffs it, lets out a short growl, then snatches it and runs out the door. You both go to the window and watch as the little dog digs a hole and buries it, leaving you both helpless with laughter.

FORUM ID: Green_Girly100
ORIGIN ID: GreenGirl1OO
SIM: Douglas Curtis
LOT: The Adventurer (I used the MOO mod, and it seems to not include any of the furniture on download, so there is now a slightly modified version available in the gallery )
LINK TO ENTRY SLIDESHOW: http://imgur.com/a/uNNc5#0
CREDIT FOR CC/RECOLORS: No CC

Forum ID: ahholladay
Origin ID: ahholladay
Sim: Douglas Curtis, III; Mansion Baron, Business Savvy, Romantic, Self-Assured, Loves the Outdoors. What a fun character! He was so well described that I felt like I 'knew' him and had a blast poking (gentle) fun at him. Some of my picture captions began venturing into 'story territory' so lol, feel free to disregard my goofy commentary and thanks for letting me play with your character.
Lot: The Curtis Penthouse
Link to entry slideshow: The Curtis Penthouse - http://imgur.com/a/tHEsc#0
Credit for CC/Recolors: (In the sims only, none in the building)
Male body hair by LumiaLover: lumialoversims.tumblr.com/post/96874663759/body-hair-v3-hello-everyo-wait-900-followers
Default eye replacement by Vampire_aninyosaloh: modthesims.info/download.php?t=533372

It was with much stifled, exasperated laughter that you accepted the profuse thanks of Douglas Curtis. The ever faithful (and merciless) Rose spent most of that interview pretending to be completely oblivious towards the hints and suggestions for dinners or drinks. Finally, after managing to cut the schmoozing and posturing short, you shut the door behind him and lean back against it. You lock eyes with Rose and both of you let out a deep, relieved sigh.

“Close up early?” You ask.

“Drinks?” Rose responds with. You smile and turn to lock the door.

Barely have your fingers touched the deadbolt lock than you see a man and a woman coming up the walk. “Drinks are on pause Rose. Clients.” You grin, hearing Rose’s muffled profanity, then open the door graciously for the couple.

They look startled, then smile back. The woman strikes you as a very warm and friendly person, with sunny blonde hair and bright blue eyes. “Oh! How nice!” She says in a playful voice. Her husband smiles, “Great welcome.” Already balding and possessed of a close cropped bead, his eyes are just a blue and project a calm steadiness that make you feel like you’re reunited with an old friend.

After many compliments on the interior decorating and the layout, Judy settles into her chair, folds her hands in her lap and then gets right to the heart of it. “Don and I are wanting a custom house. We've decided that since we’re going to spend the rest of our lives here in Willow Creek, we want something exactly right.”

“Define ‘exactly right’.” You request, taking notes.

“Well, we both like colonial architecture, so that's what we would like for the exterior and the landscaping. But inside, we love modern interiors. My favorite color is blue and his is brown.”

“Minimum of 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and one half bath…but if you can put more bedrooms in that would be great.” Don interjects. “With a soaking tub. My hobby is woodworking so if you could put together a nice workshop for me that would lovely.”

“None of that sounds like an issue.” You say confidently.

Judy smiles, “Well, there is one more thing….”

“Okay.”

“Our parents are going to be coming out in a month. His mother and father and my mother. All three are retired, and they don't always get along. So rather than build on a wing or two for them, we've decided on separate houses. But we’ll get into that later. Lets just say we need a nice large lot and our new house to be positioned with that in mind.”

“Can do. What's my budget for this build?”

“Well, we were thinking about $100,000.” suggests Don. “That enough?”

“Sure. Will 2 weeks be soon enough?”

“Sure.” He stands up, holds out his hand. “Cant wait to see what you make.”

“Me too!” Judy chimes in, also shaking your hand before being escorted out by Rose.

You jot down a few more notes before Rose comes back, chirping “Doors locked!”

Optional Challenges:Sims: Make Don and Judy, Don's Aspiration is perfectionist and Judy is active, the rest as they say, is up to you.Room: Make Don's woodworking shop, the budget for this one room challenge is 15k.

FORUM ID: asphyxiateddoll
ORIGIN ID: asphyxiateddoll
SIM: Don and Judy Olsen (under my name in the gallery as well as #BuildnShare #BuildnShare3)
LOT: Olsen's Colonial (under my name in the gallery as well as #BuildnShare #BuildnShare3)
LINK TO ENTRY SLIDESHOW: The Olsens and their Colonial Home
CREDIT FOR CC/RECOLORS:
Snaitf's Buyable Mailboxes
Scripthoge's BuildBuyMode Unlocker-used to unlock a lot of career items used in the build
Shimrod101's Improved Lighting Mod

FORUM ID: shenice93
ORIGIN ID: Shenice93
SIM: I realized earlier that I didn't really follow the guidelines for the sims for this Challenge. Don doesn't follow the description in the set-up at all, so even though he and Judy are on the Gallery, I won't be entering them in the contest.
LOT: Colonial Modern - #BuildnShare #BuildnShare3 #Shenice93
LINK TO ENTRY SLIDESHOW: Colonial Modern
CREDIT FOR CC/RECOLORS: The house utilizes plants from this set. Several items were enlarged using Shift + ]

You sit staring out the window of your office, “Could that possibly just have happened?” you ask yourself. As you look down at your notebook, you find that the notes you took during your last meeting haven’t disappeared into thin air, so you suppose it must have.

“A small home, like this can’t be that difficult to build surely?” You think as you ponder your client, the most unusual client you have come across in your time as an architect and designer. “So, he’s a ghost?! That doesn't change the outline of the brief does it!?” Shaking your head you get up from your desk and stretch your legs, you hear Rose typing away in the reception area and pop your head around the door. “Any chance of a coffee?” You ask her, thinking surely some caffeine will help you get your head around the situation. As you turn back to your desk, you hear a small noise from the seating area.

There sat your client, again appearing as if from nowhere! You make a small girlish gasp, and immediately feel incredibly stupid. “Mr Green!” You exclaim.

“Ah yes, hello again, I rather feel we finished our little meeting a little quickly, I forgot to let you know that budget won’t be an issue for this build. Go ahead and spend as much, or as little as you like.”

Rose comes through the door and looks startled to see your client, she drops the coffee and apologises profusely, rushes back to the reception area to get some cleaning supplies.

“I’ll let you get back to your brief, thank you again for agreeing to take this project on.”

“It’s not a problem Mr Green, the build should be ready for you in two weeks, is that an appropriate time scale?”

“Perfect, just in time for my party, to which, you are of course invited and bring that beguiling assistant of yours.”

Rose enters apologising profusely, much to your amusement to the client, who has already vanished once more. As she looks to the seating area, her mouth opens in a perfect ‘O’.

“Hence my need of caffeine.” You say and you both dissolve into laughter.

The Brief:
❖ A 20x30 lot
❖ 2 Bedrooms, both with en-suites
❖ A further full bathroom
❖ A Victorian style floor plan (so no open plan homes)
❖ Victorian style landscaping
❖ An old world feel to the interiors
❖ Kitchen, Dining Room and Drawing Room/Music Room must be included
❖ Keep in mind that your client is a ghost with all your design choices
❖ You have an unlimited budget

Optional ChallengesSim: Create Mr William Green, a ghost who died from laughing too much, so his after life is quite serious. His Aspiration while he was alive (back in the 1800’s) was to become a famous comedian, and he was always a bit of a goofball.Room: Create the Dining Room of the home, a room no larger than 8*6 with a Victorian theme, you have an unlimited budget.

Hashtags used for this challenge
#BuildnShare and #BuildnShare4

The Deadline for this challenge is - ]Wednesday, 29th October, Midnight CMT.

FORUM ID: benlow11
ORIGIN ID: benlow11
SIM: Did not have time so I used the ghost by @BryonyRae
LOT: Green's Victorian
LINK TO ENTRY SLIDESHOW: http://www.slideshare.net/benlow11/greens-victorian
CREDIT FOR CC/RECOLORS: None, I didn't even use any of the plumbob lights.
Credit for ghost: I did not have time to try to design and kill Mr. Green so I used the ghost that BryonyRae uploaded and took some pictures of him enjoying his new home with one of my sims, Candy Bubbles.

Morning. Who said morning had to come so early? ‘Whoever it was, they deserve a good punch in the mouth’, you decide as you grumpily sit down at your desk. And a Monday morning was even worse. A few scant hours of sleep after spending far too much time at a charity fundraiser the night before somehow only served to make you feel more tired. Desperately gulping down the caffeine-laden pumpkin spiced latte you picked up on the way in, you hope it will cure your exhausted grouchiness before your first appointment.

An email from [email protected] catches your eye as you wade through the Monday morning inbox.

“Hi! I'm so sorry, but Don and I are going to have to miss our appointment with you this Monday. We've had a family emergency. I wanted to tell you though, that we love our new home and look forward to spending the rest of our lives there.

However, we wanted to tell you about part 2 of our project. We are both very close to our parents, being only children. My Mom, and both of his parents. We’d like you to build 2 more houses on the property, one for each of our parents. Our parents are…tolerant of each other, so individual houses are best. Each house should be Colonial in design and tie in with the main house that you built for us. Of course, appropriate landscaping is a must.

His parents, Leroy and Charlotte, prefer an Arts and Crafts style of decorating and interior. Their house should be 1 bedroom, 1.5 baths at least. His mother uses a walker, so nothing cluttered so she can get around. She needs a sewing room for her hobbies and he needs a den for when he watches hockey. My mother in law hates hockey.

My mother, Vivian, prefers a Coastal/Eclectic style of décor. She loves to read and write, so good lighting and lots of bookshelves are a must. Her house should be 1 bedroom and 1.5 baths as well. She also likes to garden, so a small greenhouse out back for her to putter in would be a great addition.

I hope you’re interested in taking on this challenge. We will be back in about 2 weeks, since both parents will be arriving then. If you have any problems, let me know!

Thanks, Judy.”

You lean back in your chair, thinking over the request. ‘Shouldn't be too hard…’

Requirements:
☆ 2 small homes, with colonial architecture and landscaping
☆ Each home must have 1 bedroom, 1.5 baths
☆ Total budget of $125k

Sim Challenge:
Make Leroy, Charlotte and Vivian and show one photo of each of them doing what they love!
Leroy is active and gloomy,
Charlotte is creative and good,
Vivian loves the outdoors and and is a bookworm.
The rest of the traits, as always, are up to you!

Room Challenge:
Make Vivian's greenhouse! It must not be more than 5*5 and your budget is $10k

Note, if you did not take part in the first part of this challenge, then you can of course still enter part two. You should just build the two homes on a lot no larger than 30x20…

FORUM ID: Kulthero777
ORIGIN ID: Kulthero777
LOT: Colonial Cul de Sac
SIM: decided to opt out this time around
ROOM: n/a
LINK TO ENTRY SLIDESHOW: Slideshow (hover over images for descriptions)
CREDIT FOR CC/RECOLORS: No CC used

You're hunched over your sketchpad at the drafting table when Rose bursts into your office, practically slamming the door shut behind her. Your usually calm and collected assistant is clearly rattled, given the lack of color in her cheeks and her sky-high eyebrows.

“Rose, what's wrong?” you ask, noting the faint tremor in her hands.

“I think...” Rose whispers, “I think your next clients may be some kind of criminals! My favorite china tea cup and the antique fountain pen from my mother have mysteriously vanished since they walked in the door. Not to mention they just seem...intimidating. Should I tell them you're booked?” Not one to shy away from a challenge or curiosity, you shake your head.

“No, go ahead and send them in. I will at least meet with them before I make a decision. Maybe hide anything else valuable that isn't nailed down.” Rose nods and then opens the door, waving the new clients into your office and then scurrying back to her desk.

Two large men in boots and cargo pants enter the room, both muscular and imposing, their faces impossible to read behind dark sunglasses. Wordlessly, they stand on either side of your office door, arms folded, as a diminutive woman with ink-black hair in leather saunters through the door. The defiant tilt of her chin belies her small stature.

“I'm Mara Sloane. My associates and I are in need of your services. We can more than compensate you for your efforts.” Sitting at your desk, you glance nonchalantly at the items on its surface, making a mental list.

“Of course,” you say. “Why don't you have a seat and tell me what it is that you need.” Ms. Sloane remains standing.

“We are looking for a utilitarian space, like a warehouse, in which we can both live and conduct business. We each need our own bedrooms, at least two bathrooms, a functional kitchen, a living room or common space and a computer lab. The building needs to be nondescript, like it's always been there. We don't want something that will attract a lot of attention. It also needs ample storage for our shipments. We need a new location quickly, so it must be completed in two weeks. Are you willing to take the job?”

As you clear your throat to answer, the words “THE ANSWER IS YES” flash across your computer screen so fast that you're not convinced you saw them. None of them appears to have moved a muscle. How...?

Then Ms. Sloane snaps her fingers at the men, and one of them hands her a small duffel bag. She drops it on your desk and yanks the zipper open.

“$225,000 Simoleons. That should cover your costs.” You nod, at a complete loss for words. “Good. We'll be in touch.”

“Wait!” you say, as they turn to leave. “What line of work did you say you were in?” Without pausing, Ms. Sloane calls out over her shoulder.

“I didn't.”

And with that, they're gone. Rose darts into your office, eyes wide, and you both stare in shock at her tea cup and fountain pen sitting smack dab on the center of your desk.

Sim Challenge:
Create Mara Sloane and her associates, Malik Yateem and Kurai Tsukino, and show them using the space you create. Mara is Evil and her aspiration is to become Public Enemy Number 1. Malik is neat and his aspiration is to become a Nerd Brain. Kurai is a genius who hopes to one day become Chief of Mischief . You choose the other 2 traits for each.

You need to show the three going about their day to day lives in their new environment, a day in the life sort of thing.

Room Challenge:
Create the computer lab, it needs to have workstations for each Sim and be of industrial design to fit with the overall theme. Your budget for this room is $25,000. It also needs to be showcased separately.

Hashtags used for this challenge
#BuildnShare and #BuildnShare6

The Deadline for this challenge is Wednesday, 26th November, Midnight CMT.

FORUM ID: Carewren123
ORIGIN ID: Carewren123
LOT: Sloane Enterprises
LINK TO ENTRY SLIDESHOW: Precise by Design: Challenge 6
SIM: N/A I made sims to have in parts of my slideshow, but I didn't spend very much time on them and didn't have time for their own slideshow.
ROOM:N/A
CREDIT FOR CC/RECOLORS: None.

It was the rumble of an engine that drew your attention from the folio of house designs you were perusing while enjoying the beautiful fall weather on the porch. Pulling up to your curb with the grace of a large cat, is a fire engine red GTO with black racing stripes. Sunlight gleamed off the muscle car like it had just come off of a show room floor.

As you admire the curves and lines of the car, another sight to admire steps out. A deep red long coat snaps in the playful fall wind as he walks towards the steps. With the wind tugging at his dark hair, this mysterious stranger looks as if he stepped out of the pages of a graphic novel.

Up close you note an interesting blend of Spanish and Chinese heritage in a handsome face. Surprisingly intense amber colored eyes study you, making it seem as if all your secrets are available for him to read. Noting the folio in your hand, he smiles, a roguishly charming smile. “Are you the architect?”

“Um, yes.” You give yourself a shake and stand up to shake his hand. “Yes I am. You have a beautiful car.”

“Thank you. My adopted father and I restored it together. My name is Jesus Wu.”

“It's nice to meet you Mr Wu. Did we have an appointment?”

“No. I was hoping to make one or just talk to you in person. I need a house.”

You smile, “Everyone needs a house Mr Wu.”

“You could put that on a T-shirt.”

Now you grin, “I should do that. Do you want to sit out here and talk about your house? Or do you want to go inside?”

“Out here is fine. Its beautiful out.” He sits down. After fetching a pen and paper, he starts in. “I would like a house on a nice lot, with a great view and a little isolated. I’d like a master bedroom with en suite bathroom and I work from home so I’d like an office.”

“What kind of work do you do Mr Wu?” you inquire, taking rapid notes.

“I’m a private detective. I travel a lot, so I will need a good security system. My friends Mike and Reggie like to visit, so I need a guest bedroom. I also need a full bath. I’d like open concept. I have enemies and I want to have clear line of sight in case someone follows me home. I obviously need to keep fit, so a home gym is a must as well as I need some place to work out and train.”

“All of those are very doable. Any preferences in style or design features?”

“Not really. I have kind of an eclectic style. Comfortable.”

“Sounds good. When do you need your new home?”

“When can you have it? I’m staying at a hotel right now.”

“2 weeks?”

He looks impressed. “2 weeks it is. Thanks.” He stands up to go.

“Oh! Mr Wu!

“Yes?”

“What is your budget?”

“75k.”

“Alright. Thank you.”

“Later.” He says, casually tossing a wave over his shoulder as he heads back to his car. You watch him climb in and start the car. As he pulls away from the curb, you note a dark car with tinted windows pull away and follow…

You sit at your desk looking at your holiday to do list, when Rose pokes her head in the door. Perplexed she says, "Your four o'clock is here." "Send them on in", you reply. She hands you a packet that smells faintly of vanilla and spices. Rose states,"This was dropped off about an hour ago with a note saying it was your four o'clock appointment!"
You open the packet with some apprehension to find a letter written on beautiful stationary and another piece of paper. You read that letter without uttering a single word. Rose jumps up to read the letter over your shoulder. This is what you both see and read.
Dear Esteemed Builder,
The Sunset Valley Homeless Shelter has found homes for all of it's residences this holiday season but one family, the Lines Family. They have just had to relocate to Oasis Springs after the loss of Mrs Lines, she seemed to decide that after 14 years, family life just wasn’t for her. Don’t worry, she’s on our naughty list! We have a property suited to the family but we would like you to ‘flip’ it to suit Mr. Lines and his three sons. Please find enclose all the specific details to help facilitate a new home for this family. We look forward to seeing what you develop for this specific request.
Happiest Holiday Wishes,
Mr. and Mrs. S.C.
You quickly grab the other piece of paper and quickly scan over the requirements. The job was very feasible and it would be nice to do something so meaningful this time of year. Rose asks with a sniff,"Are we doing this job?" You reply, "Yes, we definitely are!" Rose sniffs even harder as she heads for the door and states," I will start the paperwork!"

The Challenge
Build Mr. Arthur Lines and his three sons a new home for the holidays.
Budget: $70,000 total for the lot (The total cost of the lot in game is currently just under $65,000)
Location: Springscape in Oasis Springs

You May Not:
Alter any external walls
Move any external windows or doors (you can replace them with windows and doors (of the same size) of your choice)
Use any Custom Content for this challenge

You May:
Redesign the interior layout of the house to your design
Furnish however you please

Must Contain:
Three bedrooms and two bathrooms
A study/den with computer
A well equipped kitchen
Living/dining/kitchen
An outdoor area for both adults and children

Room Challenge
We would like to see a great room or living room from you for this challenge, one that the whole family can spend time in together. Your budget for the room is $15,000.

Sim Challenge
Create the Lines family and show them enjoying their new surroundings:
You do not get any specific traits or aspirations this time around we want to see what you can come up with for this lovely family.

Mr. Arthur Lines is an adult who loves to garden and his favourite color is green.
His eldest son is a teenager, Reginald, who loves to write and his favourite color is pink.
The middle son is a child named Oscar. He loves to paint and his favourite color is yellow.
The youngest is Harold, a baby, who loves the color grey.

Sitting at home, curled up in front of your fire, you feel very pleased with yourself. You have made someone's Holiday so very special this year. As you find yourself nodding off to sleep you imagine that you can hear sleigh bells in the distance. You figure you must be dreaming as they sound like they are getting closer. They stop and as someone knocks on your front door you are wide awake. "Who on earth could be calling at this time on Boxing Day?" You ask yourself. You slowly unfurl yourself from your cosy chair and reticently leave the warmth of the fire, heading to the front door. You open it to be faced with someone who looks a lot like Santa Claus!

"Ah wonderful, I just wanted to come and thank you for completing The Lines' home so spectacularly."

You blink, figuring that you must actually still be asleep.

You nod mutely at the jolly gentleman dressed in red.

"I have another favour to ask of you though..." He says, almost shyly.

Again, unable to find your voice, you nod.

"Well, I'll ask Mrs C to email you all the details. Wishing you a Happy New Year!!"

Feeling a little absurd you nod once more.

And just like that he steps of of your font porch and into the sleigh waiting at the end of your driveway. Sleigh bells start up as you find yourself staring at a dozen reindeer all hooked up to the front of it. Closing the door, you head to your office and unlock your tablet and there waiting for you is an email from [email protected] Shaking your head, you open it.

My Dear,

Thank you once more for the wonderful job you did for The Lines family. It has come to my attention that we were rather remiss in our appraisal of the homeless situation here in Oasis Springs. There are a number of families that were without shelter over Mr C and mine's favourite day of the year. In our haste, I'm afraid we decided that the Shelter would not be needed and as so, we removed it (Fairy dust is such a powerful thing!!)

We were therefore hoping that you could build a new place for us to help those less fortunate than ourselves.

Here are a list of our requests.
☆ It needs to be on a rather large lot, I would guess the plot known as Arid Ridge is situated should more than meet our needs
☆ Three to four self contained apartment style spaces (which would be suitable for a family of up to 5 including the possibility of a baby)
☆ A large recreation area with entertainment present for all ages (this should also be able to be converted into an emergency shelter)
☆ A play area outside for little ones
☆ A vegetable plot to help the families receive a balanced diet for little outlay

Room Challenge:
We would like to see your recreation room in both schemes, as a space for entertainment and it converted into an emergency shelter.
You have an unlimited budget for this area.

Sim Challenge:
We would like to see how the less fortunate of Oasis Springs take to their new shelter.

Oh yes, Mr C and I are going to fund this build, so spend as much as you feel you have to!!

Happy New Year to you!

Mrs C

Finally you find your voice. "Rose is never going to believe me!" You say out loud as you shake your head.

Hashtags used for this challenge
#BuildnShare and #BuildnShare9

The Deadline for this challenge is Wednesday, 7th January, Midnight CMT

Settling down in your visitors area with a cup of coffee and your portfolio, you feel proud of all you have accomplished in such a short time. Flicking through the pages you spy gorgeous colonial architecture, elegant Victorian spires, industrial chic, an interesting take on penthouse living and of course your very own custom built office. But what what challenge is going to come next?

After ten minutes, your coffee cup is drained and you are sat back at your desk awaiting your next client. Rose knocks on your door and shows her in, wait, that’s Judy Olsen. What is she doing back so soon?

You cross to the door and take her hand, “Judy, it’s lovely to see you again, is everything OK with the apartments we built for your and Don’s parents?”

“Oh yes, they are all so thrilled to have their own space, yet still be so close at hand. There have been some tense times, but things all seem to be settling down now, which is why I’m here.”

She takes a seat as Rose reappears with a tray of coffee and some tiny little caramel tartlets. Judy takes one look at the tray and laughs! “Oh my! How perfect!” She exclaims.

Intrigued, you arch your brows at her, inviting her to elaborate.

“Well, Don and I were thinking we could both do with losing a little weight, you know after all that holiday overindulgence!”

Thinking of all those extra calories you consumed over the period, you nod encouragingly.

“We want to start our own little gym! A place for people with like minds to gather, work out and chat. And we want you to build it for us.”

“We’ll need some space for classes, a weights room, an area devoted to cardio and of course some changing rooms and showers. We were also thinking about having a separate little juice bar come cafe for those who want to try and live a healthier lifestyle, but aren’t quite ready to take that step into the gym. What do you think?”

“I think it sounds wonderful and I am sure that you will be inundated with members. Did you have any thoughts on styles, colours and so on?”

“Well, we don’t want a modern space, too many gyms look so intimidating and perfect that people can be a little hesitant to even step foot inside. We just got back from Monte Vista, Don’s parents got engaged there and we were hoping you could try that Mediteranean style?”

This could be a bit of a challenge, you think to yourself. But you also think that it would perfectly suit the brief, so you nod and ask, “What about a budget?”

“Well, how does $175,000 sound?”

“Like you will have the most tricked out charming gym in Willow Creek! We’ll get started on it immediately, I think we should be able to get it completed in two weeks for you, ok?”

“Perfect, now let me eat one of these charming little tartlets, Don doesn’t need to know does he?” She says with a wink.

Your Brief:

A Mediterranean style build with two separate buildings, on a 40x30 plot. The larger of the two is to be a comfortable gym, the smaller a café/juice bar.

The gym needs to include space for classes, a weights room, an area devoted to cardio and mens and women’s changing rooms and showers. It will need a reception area and an office for all the paper work.

The café/juice bar needs to have a bar, tables and chairs, an office and a food preparation area. It will also need it’s own toilet facilities (bear in mind that this is a food preparation area and as such you will need two doors separating the main area from any WC).

Your budget is $175,000.

Sim Challenge:
We would like to see Don and Judy (you can find out all about Don and Judy here) in their newly created space and other Sims enjoying the gym and café, these can be Sims you have created or Sims already present in the game. We will need a picture of each area in use.

Your stomach growls, making you glance at your watch and wonder when Rose will be back with lunch. A tentative knock at your office door catches you by surprise. You rush to open the door in Rose's absence and find a slight, wisp of a young woman with alabaster skin, white-blonde hair, and pale grey-blue eyes on the other side. She is an unusual beauty. Ethereal.

“I-I'm so sorry to intrude, but I wondered if you could help me,” she stammers, a faint worry line between her brows.

“Of course!” you say. “Please come have a seat and tell me what I can do for you, Ms...?”

“Lauren. Lauren Addler.” You shake hands, take your seats, and gesture for her to continue.

“Well, I recently got engaged to the love of my life, Mark Holloway.”

“That's wonderful!” you exclaim, confused by the shadow that crosses Ms Addler's face.

“Normally, I would have months to plan the perfect wedding, but I only have two weeks. My father was diagnosed with a terminal, degenerative illness, and his condition is getting worse every day. He desperately wants to walk me down the aisle and give me away at my wedding, but we're running out of time. I had originally dreamed of a beautiful outdoor beach wedding, but my father would have difficulty walking on uneven surfaces in his condition. I've looked all over town for an indoor venue that would work, but I've come up empty. Would it be possible to build an all-inclusive wedding venue for both the ceremony and the reception and complete it in two weeks?” The look of worry on Ms Addler's face has grown more intense.

“Absolutely,” you reassure her, clasping her small, clammy hands in your own. “What did you have in mind?”

“Well, it needs to be easy for my father to navigate, so if it has multiple levels, there must be an elevator. I'd like a beautiful hall for the ceremony, maybe with a romantic beach influence, blues and greens and sand tones, and lots of candlelight. We'll need a separate room for the reception with dining tables, the wedding party table, a buffet, a dance floor, a bar, and perhaps a live band. We have a budget of $175,000. Is that even possible?”

“Not only is it possible, but you can consider it as good as done. I will make some calls on your behalf and then be in touch with you soon.” Ms Addler appears on the verge of tears as she thanks you and rushes off to look at wedding dresses.

The Brief:

•40x30 community lot in the world of your choosing

•Large hall for the ceremony

•Reception room with
◦dining tables
◦wedding party table
◦buffet
◦dance floor
◦area for live band

•Must be handicap accessible (*Note: as there are no elevators in game, just build a small 2x2 room with doors on all levels to look like an elevator.)

Create Lauren, Mark, and Lauren's father and show the wedding and the reception. Lauren is good and romantic. Mark is outgoing and cheerful. Lauren's father, James, is family oriented and clumsy. The rest of the traits are up to you!

Room Challenge

We would like to see the large hall decked out for the ceremony. Your budget is $30,000.

Hashtags used for this challenge #BuildnShare and #BuildnShare11
The deadline for this challenge is Wednesday 4 February, midnight CMT.

This Week’s Challenge Specifics:
It is that time again! Time to let your style truly shine and compete in the Winter Designer Showdown! For this challenge, it’s all about design and landscaping.

We saw some amazing results and even some featured lots with the past showdowns, so lets heat things up even more this time and dazzle the masses with your designer magic. You have 2 full weeks for this challenge, so pay attention to detail and make those lots beautiful!

But, wait, there is a twist!

On the property itself, you will find these 4 items:

You will choose ONE of these items to use as your inspiration to decorate and furnish your house. In the end, when the judges look at your media, they should know which item you chose just by looking at the way you decorated and furnished. Please also include the object you chose somewhere in your house and be sure to have it in a screenshot (unless you choose the bear gnome from Outdoor Retreat and don’t yet have the Game Pack). You can delete the objects on the lot that you didn't choose as your inspiration and the wall piece used to hold the painting. You also cannot duplicate the item (use it more than once on the lot) that you do use as your inspiration.

Rules and details:
You can designate the rooms however you like, but your outcome should be a 3 bedroom house with 2 bathrooms.
You cannot change the size or location of foundations, walls, and roofing.
Yes, all walls, foundation, and roofing must remain the same.
You can, however, add walls; as long as the home remains a 3bdr/2ba home.
You can replace doors, windows, and stairs, but they have to remain in the same position (meaning if it's a 2 tile window, you have to replace it with a 2 tile window or 2 single tile windows, etc.) Doors CAN be replaced with an arch of the same size if desired.
You can't change the roof shape, but you can change the texture and color, the pitch, add trim, adjust the curvature, etc.
You can add structural elements for landscaping purposes, such as a greenhouse, gazebo, or a carport (no garages), but they cannot be attached to the main house .
You CAN change, add or delete any fencing.
This must be on a 30x20 lot (can be placed in any neighborhood/world).
THERE IS NO BUDGET!
The theme is completely up to you. It does not have to be Winter themed - your house should reflect your inspirational object.
You do not need any game packs to compete. The house was built with only base game elements.
CC is allowed, but please list/link/credit them when you submit so that downloaders can find them!

You close up your previous case file, happy in the knowledge that the Winter Showdown has been completed and completed well.

Tapping the intercom you ask Rose if your next client has arrived, she says that they are just walking through the door.

You go out to meet them and see a young mom struggling to get a buggy up the stairs. Offering your help, you can't help but

notice her startling green eyes. As you both get the buggy back on terra firma, you offer her your hand.

"Mrs Johnson I presume."

"Please call me Kaye. It's lovely to finally meet the architect that we've heard so much about. I'm sorry but Kieran couldn't make the appointment today, his mother is unwell and he has had to go and visit them.

"I hope that it is nothing serious. Let's go through to my office shall we?"

Rose interrupts "Can I get you a drink?"

"That would be lovely, do you have any green tea? I am still feeding little Kaiden here." She motions to the baby in the buggy.

"Of course, I'll bring it in when it's ready."

Kaye sits on the couch by the window and unstraps the baby, unzipping his warm winter snuggly and places him over her shoulder.

Rose enters and places the tea on the coffee table.

"Could you hold this little man for me while I drink this? I hate having hot liquids around him."

"Of course." You say, a little hesitantly, wondering if the baby would be safer with his Mom and the hot liquid.

Kaye gets up and hands over the wriggling Kaiden. Trying to get him into a comfortable position, you ask "So, I understand that this little one is your first child?"

Kaye responds with an affirmative nod and a smile as she sips at the tea. "We are planning to have more, but we are happy with it just being the three of us at the moment. We really need more space, we are in an apartment at present and my gorgeous little man is in with us at night, it's lovely having him so close, but I find myself waking with every little movement he makes. On the other hand, I think Kieran could sleep through world war 3." She chuckles a little.

"So you are definitely looking for something with two bedrooms then?"

"Yes, in fact, we have found the perfect house, it's just a shame that there's already someone living there. We do have a plan of the place though, do you think you could build us a replica?" She hands over the plan

Juggling the baby and the sheet of paper you are handed is more complicated than you thought it would be, but you manage. Little hands try and reach out and you find yourself in a battle of tug of war with a 1-year-old.

Feeling a little more satisfied than you think is appropriate after having won the battle, you place the plan on the desk and give it some thought.

"I am sure that we can come up with something. Tell me a little bit more about yourself and your husband so that I can get a feel for your tastes."

"Well, before Kaiden, I worked in journalism, but I want to be a stay at home Mom, I don't see the point in having children if you are going to ship them off to nursery 5 days a week. Kieran is more ambitious than me, he is a scientist, he is working on a cure for the common cold at present, so he is at work quite a lot, I must admit it would be nice to see a little more of him..."

"What sort of budget are you looking at for this project?"

"My parents were recently killed in a boating accident, and as sole heir, I will soon have the funds to build my dream home. However, Kieran and I do have quite a bit in savings, my parents set up a trust fund that matured when I had my first baby. So I have $250k for this part of the project."

"This part of the project?" You ask.

"Yes, we will be looking to extend our little family in the future and as such, we will be back to ask you to complete some additions once my parents estate has been finalised."

"Well, OK then! Any favourite colours or colours you don't want? What sort of style were you thinking of?"
"As long as the colour scheme is quite muted and the furnishings aren't too modern or too archaic, we are happy to leave all those details up to you."

Kaye stands up, takes the baby from you and straps him back into his buggy.

"It was lovely to meet you, and I am really looking forward to seeing what you come up with for our new home."

"Likewise, I hope that Kieran's mother is OK and that he can get back to you and that lovely little bundle soon."

"Me too."

As you go to shake her hand, she surprises you by pulling you into a hug.

"Well." You say as you gather your wits, "We should be finished within the fortnight."

"Wonderful, you take care now." You gesture to Rose to help Kaye down the stairs with the buggy.

You sit in the waiting room, still feeling a bit flustered at the sheer amount of personal information you had to disclose at the gate just set foot on the military base. The building is bustling with people, a dizzying sea of camouflage and dress blues. The man behind the reception desk puts the phone back in the cradle and says, “The Squadron Leader will see you now. Right this way, please.”

You follow him through a set of gleaming mahogany doors into the Squadron Leader's office. A burly man in a crisp uniform is pouring over plans tacked to a large bulletin board, his back plum straight. His blond hair is cropped close, and his skin is deeply tanned after hours under a hot sun. He turns and extends his hand to you. “Good morning. Ryan Kavanagh, Squadron Leader.” Your hand has disappeared in his enormous grasp.

“Good morning, sir. How may I help you?”

“We are in the process of rezoning a portion of this post and have appropriations to add housing for military families. I would like for you to design a modest family home for this purpose.”

“Certainly,” you reply. “What are the specifications required?”

Motioning at the bulletin board, which you now see is covered in winding streets and small, almost identical plots of land, Kavanagh responds, “The homes need to be modest 2- or 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom structures with the basic necessities: living, kitchen and dining. They must be a single story and built on slab foundations; basements are not in the budget.” His speech is clipped and concise.

“Is there a particular style of home you would prefer?” you ask, already mentally laying out possible floor plans.

“Something with clean lines, not a lot of bric-a-brac. Perhaps a craftsman bungalow or mid-century modern ranch. The landscaping should be tasteful but not overdone. The lots are small, only 20x20, so the yard space will be limited. The build must come in under $40,000 Simoleons.”

“I will begin immediately. We can have the first unit built in two weeks. Do you have any additional requirements, sir?”

“If time allows, I would like to see a mock-up of 4 different exterior choices on the home, in complementary color schemes. Nothing loud or garish. The structures will be uniform, but I would like a few options in terms of color.”

“Absolutely. I will be in touch. It was a pleasure to meet you.” Kavanagh shakes your hand again, the faintest curl of a smile at the corner of his mouth.

“Likewise. I look forward to our next meeting. Private Sanders will see you out.”

SIM CHALLENGE:
Make Ryan Kavanagh and show yourself giving him a tour of the prototype build.

ROOM CHALLENGE:
Not exactly a room challenge this time, but recolor the exterior and landscaping of the build in four different ways so the Squadron Leader has options. Each option will need to be uploaded to the gallery to qualify for entry.

“Dear?” Rose’s voice inquires over your intercom. Her dog had recently had a litter of puppies. And ever since Rose had been feeling sentimental. “One of the puppies is missing.”

With a smile, you turn away from where you are playing with one of the wandering puppies. “I know. He’s in here with me. I think I need to adopt him.”

“Absolutely. In the mean time your next client, Ms. Bloodclaw, is here.”

“Okay. Send Ms. Bloodclaw in.” You giggle as you nudge the puppy with your foot and watch him attack said foot. The scratches in the shoe are totally worth it. It's the sound of high heels clipping briskly along the hallway that reminds you it's time to get your game face on. Quickly you scoop the puppy into your lap and scoot under your desk. Just in time. The door opens and in walks a woman with a direct gaze and a regal air.

Thick, wavy hair of raven black is scooped back from a beautiful face. Green eyes the color of priceless emeralds smolder in a pale face over a pair of blood red lips. With a change of costume, she would easily be a perfect model for any vampire or gothic novel. Instead, however she wore a perfectly tailored business suit that could only be described as a power suit. She held out a perfectly manicured hand and smiled. “Jade Bloodclaw, Bloodclaw Industries.”

You’ve heard of Bloodclaw Industries. 5 years ago it was a failing company with investors bailing out like rats on a sinking ship. Then it was reacquired by the company founder’s daughter. Now it was soaring rapidly north through the Fortune 500. And the company CEO, the woman who now sat across from you, was being featured on the cover of Sims magazine. She couldn’t be more than 30 if that.

You smile quickly, and exchange a firm, brisk handshake with her. “Its nice to meet you. Please have a seat.”

“Thank you. I appreciate your being able to meet me so quickly.” She crosses her legs and smoothes the sleek skirt in a habitual gesture. “I’ve heard so many good things about you and your work I thought you would have a waiting list.”

“We pride ourselves on completing our work quickly.”

“So I’ve heard. I have to admit though, what decided me was hearing one particular client of yours sing your praises.”

“Oh?” You inquire, trying not to grit your teeth as the puppy on your lap suddenly decides that the hand holding him was a chew toy.

“Douglas Curtis is not a man easily distracted from…” She pauses, reconsidering her words, “His personal concerns.” You can hear what she didn’t say: that Douglas Curtis wasn’t easily distracted from his ego.

“You know him?” You’re a bit surprised. She didn’t appear to you to handle the egotistical easily. You free your hand from the puppy.

“My company has consulted with him in the past in various endeavors.” She rolls her eyes, still smiling. “So when he was so quick to give you praise, I decided to bring this intriguing challenge to you.”

“I’m very interested to hear about this challenge,” You assure her, trying to catch the puppy before he wiggles his way off your lap.

“Good. Though I have a question first.”

“Yes?”

“Whats on your lap? Puppy or kitten?” She grins at you, making you laugh.

“One of Rose’s puppies. Sorry.” You scoot back a little and show her.

“Not at all.” She holds out her hands and takes the puppy, playing with him on her lap as she speaks. “Bloodclaw Industries has a wide variety of interest from cybernetics to fashion to shipping. Recently I acquired a shipping company to bolster the shipping aspect of things. Since the plan is to use it primarily for moving company assets, I’m left with a number of large steel containers. I don’t want them to go to waste in some dockyard or in some landfill. That’s not efficient or healthy for the environment.

“It was a friend of mine, Erica, who suggested using them for housing. A kind of eco-friendly house. So I thought I would put the challenge before you. I want to give you 4 steel containers. You convert them into a house, in any style or formation you want. This is a prototype. If it comes out like I expect it to, it will be the first of many. You have 25,000 for the interior, including things like windows and stairs. Though this is a prototype, I want prospective buyers to feel like this could be their home. Also, an appealing location, to lure those who might be put off by living in reused shipping containers.”

“That goes without saying. Will two weeks be fine?”

“Yes.” She checks her watch, “I’m afraid I must go.” Jade hands you a business card, “If you have any more questions. Please let me know.” She also hands the puppy back, “Thank you for seeing me.”

After she leaves, you abandon any pretense of work to continue playing with the puppy.

Brief:
30×20 lot
4 – 10×4 shipping containers placed in any formation you want.
Note: Prior to remodeling, show us the shipping container layout as if you had just finished stacking the containers.
$25,000 for the remodel
Full landscaping.

Sim Challenge: Create the home's new owners, full creative freedom with this part!

You sit with a mug of hot lemon and honey feeling sorry for yourself, as the cold you had been trying to avoid has made a fully fledged appearance. The intercom buzzes and you answer, wiping your nose.
"Yes Rose?"
"Your 4:30 appointment is here, shall I show him in?:
"Please."
The door opens and in walks a young man, with short strawberry blond hair and an athletic appearance, you wouldn't be surprised if he played as a quarterback. However, you wouldn't put him at an age where he would be interested in building a home, he can't be more than 17. In his arms he carries a tiny baby, from the pink babygrow, you surmise that is a little girl.
"Henry, it's such a pleasure to meet you."
"You too, and thank you for taking the time to meet with me."
He seems exceptionally polite and his eyes look a little sad, which you can understand given the situation."I understand that you need a new home?"
"Yes, my parents were recently killed in a car accident, leaving me to look after my baby sister Evangeline. They left us enough money that I wanted to relocate and start again."
"I can see why you would want to do that."
"Willow Creek seems like a nice place, and the school is supposed to be fantastic, I want to try and give little Evie the best possible start in life."
You find his demeanour amazing considering what he has been through and what life must have in store for him and his little sister.
"So, what did you have in mind?"
"Well,this may seem a little weird, but I love little cottages, I like the cosiness that they seem to instill. And I want Evie to feel safe in her new home. My parents life insurance policy has enough that I can put away some money so that Evie can go to college if she wants, and that will leave me with enough to live on, for a while. I was thinking about starting my own business sometime in the future, so that I can work from home, to help cut down on childcare costs."
Again, you wonder how someone so young can be so unselfish and pragmatic. Thinking of how you would have handled the situation had it been you at 17, it also gives you some perspective of how awful life could truly be.
Evangeline starts to grumble, so Henry holds up a bunch of keys and this seems to lift her spirits as she starts waving her hands in their general direction.
"So, we are looking at cottage style build, with 2 bedrooms I'm guessing?"
"That would be great, it would also be useful if I could have another room to myself, sort of like an office stroke workshop, I am thinking ahead though, so if it's not possible on the budget, maybe just an alcove or something in my room, I don't want Evie to be able to get her hands on my tools as she gets more mobile."
"What do you make?" You enquire.
"I love wood work, I sculpt and make some basic items of furniture. It helps me to relax."
"Sounds incredible, I'd love to see some of your work someday?"
With a genuine smile Henry replies. "I'd like that too! So, as for a budget, do you think you could manage this build with $35,000."
"I think that's definitely doable. Give me a couple of weeks and I'll show you around the finished property."
"thank you so much, I was dreading this meeting, it seems so final, to have a new home. But we can't live in the past."
"No, and I must say I am sorry for your loss, but I think little Evangeline has been left in safe hands."
As he leaves the office, you notice little Evangeline is looking in your direction, you hold her gaze for a moment and you could swear it was almost like she was trying to say thank you.

Use Daisy Hovel in Willow Creek:
Cottage style build
2 bedroom
1.5 bathroom
Workshop space out-side of the main living area

Room Challenge:
Create Henry’s bedroom, with an area for his workshop included. Your budget for this is $7,500.

Sim Challenge:
Create Henry and Evangeline Taylor. Henry is cheerful and Evangeline is self assured, the rest is up to you.

Entry List

Starting Out

N/A

Established

FORUM ID: kezflake (re-doing entry)
ORIGIN ID: elsing2000
Looks like this entry is invalid, I need to make a few adjustments and reupload my pics to reflect, will leave this notice on until this is done.
LOT: Download from gallery
LINK TO ENTRY SLIDESHOW: Slideshow
CREDIT FOR CC/RECOLORS: Not used
Cheats
MOO - I think I used it, staying safe and saying yes
bb.ignoregameplayunlocksentitlement
NoCC

FORUM ID: Bouquetcatcher
ORIGIN ID: Bouquetcatcher
LOT: Fresh Start Cottage
LOT COST: $2,000
BUILD COST: $32,965
TOTAL COST: $34,965
LINK TO ENTRY SLIDESHOW: https://www.flickr.com/photos/bouquetcatcher/sets/72157651913528406/
(I do plan to do an "upgraded" version of this build very soon - so many things I wanted to do but couldn't due to budget!)
SIM: Henry and Evangeline Taylor (use my Origin ID Bouquetcatcher on the gallery)
SIM ENTRY SLIDESHOW: https://www.flickr.com/photos/bouquetcatcher/sets/72157651981494831/
CREDIT FOR CC/RECOLORS: None, but I did use MOO. (Edited: I removed my mods and reuploaded, so the build is no longer flagging as CC. I don't know why my last build did not flag as I probably had mods in then too, but whatevs. I use NO CC)

As you step into the office, you notice a large bouquet on Rose’s desk. You also see Rose’s expression, a kind of dread mixed with awe.
“All OK Rose?”
“These flowers were just delivered, for me apparently, but there is no note. I have a horrible feeling I know only one person who would make such an over the top gesture…”
You smile to yourself, as you know full well who sent the flowers but have been sworn to secrecy.
“Were there any messages while I was out showing Henry and Evangeline around?”
“Kaye Johnson called to invite you round for a meal, between you and me, I think she might have something to tell you, she sounded ever so disappointed that you weren’t here.”
“Bless, I haven’t seen her much recently, we’ve both been busy, what with her and those little munchkins and me with this place.” Rose nods knowingly.
“Well, off you go into your office and I’ll make you a nice cup of tea.”

Inspecting the mammoth creamy coloured bevy of gloriously scented lilies, roses, germinis, lisianthus and spray chrysanthemums, your mind drifts back to the voicemail you received a couple of days ago. Wandering back into your office, you replay the message over in your mind.

“Well, hello there my dear!” Is how the message started, in such a heavily accented southern drawl, that you immediately knew who the caller was.
“I am immensely sorry that I am not in the country to avail your services personally. But I am on a dig you see, out in Egypt at the moment. No, I can’t do that right now, can’t you see I’m on the ‘phone? Sorry about that, now, what was I saying? Ah yes, the reason for my call, I want you to build Willow Creek a new public library. A grand place of learning. It shall of course have to be named after myself in some way or other, but I’ll leave the details for you to figure out, I know I’ll just love anything you can come up with. Ah, wait, now there was one other thing, wasn’t there?.” You hear a muffling of the handset as it is obvious he is trying to continue another conversation with someone close by. “Of course, the money! How could I forget the money?! Let’s give you a budget of $150,000, and please replace the original structure and place it on the same lot. Ok then, that should be all. Any questions, feel free to email me at [email protected] Oh, and I hope Rose appreciates the little gift I sent her! Please don’t let on that they are from me, or I might have to rethink the commission.” You heard a playful tone in his voice at the end there, but still, you can’t be too careful and the last thing you want to do is upset a client like Douglas Curtis The Third.

Rose knocks on the door and brings you a steaming hot cup of tea with a shortbread biscuit on the saucer. You suddenly feel very guilty at keeping the secret from her.

“So, what’s on the agenda?” She asks.

“Well, I had a voicemail from the one and only Douglas Curtis The Third a couple of days ago.” You wink at her and her mouth forms a perfect ‘O’.

“He has apparently bought the Willow Creek Library and wishes it to be replaced with something a little more grand.”

Rose still has not uttered a word. She backs out of your office and you stifle a giggle.

The Brief:
You will need to demolish and build on the same site as the Willow Creek Research Library.
You have a budget of $150,000 Total Cost (including the base lot cost which is $4,000).
It has to look grand, we have no more information than that.
You will need to include a computer area, seating area, reference area, children’s area and public facilities (toilets).
There must also be a space to sit and read outside.
It needs to be name after its benefactor in some way.

On a side note you may use basements if you wish.

Room Challenge:
The Reference Library. Please design a reference area for the library, no larger than 10x7, it must include bookshelves, desks. A place to do some serious learning. Your budget for this is $15,000.

Sim Challenge:
We want to see who will frequent the new library, will they be bums just looking for a place to sit down, or serious scholars? Please provide us with 3 sims, complete with back stories. You have complete creative freedom for their traits and aspirations.

Feeling proud of your previous project, knowing that Mr Curtis couldn't have been happier, you leaf through your diary looking at the projects and meetings you have coming up, a full plate. Unlike the plate by your side, which you are dabbing up the last of the crumbs that have fallen off the gorgeous piece of carrot cake that Rose baked and bought in this morning.

Rose buzzes through as you are licking your lips.

“Yes Rose?” You mumble.

You hear Rose chuckling as she says “Mrs Johnson is on line one for you.”

As you finish your mouthful you wonder why she could be calling, you hope that there is nothing amiss with their new home.

A little more professionally you ask Rose to please put her through.

“Mrs Johnson, what can I do for you?”

“Thank goodness you are still working, I was worried that I might have missed you for the night.”

Deciding to take the plunge and talk to her as the friend that she was fast becoming. “What's up Kaye?”

“Well, when I came to you regarding phase one of the project, I think I mentioned that Kieran's mother was unwell?”

“You did. Oh, has she taken a turn for the worse?”

“Not as such, it's just that she fell and broke her hip, she has been in hospital and has had it replaced, but Kathleen and Kelvin were living on the 4th floor of a retirement complex, and the lifts don't always work. They are very proud people, I could afford to pay for them to have a little chalet in a lovely residential village, but they won't accept anything from me.”

“I see.” You say, sensing the direction that this conversation was heading.

“Kieran floated the idea of them coming to live with us and it didn't bomb like we thought it would. In fact Kathleen looked positively overjoyed at the thought of being so close to us, now we have Kaiden.”

“And you need me to come and have a look at how we could fit a self contained annex somewhere close by.” You say, with a smile on your face.

“Yes, that's precisely what we are after. Do you think you could squeeze us in?”

“Let me just check my diary.” You pop her on hold while you buzz through to Rose. “Rose, is there any way that I can...”

Rose interrupts. “I've already called your next scheduled clients and informed them that due to unforeseen circumstances, you are going to have to postpone them by a couple of weeks. They were fine.”

“But... how...”

“It's my job to know.” She says as she hangs up on you. You make a mental note to increase her bonus and wonder, not for the first time, what you would do without her.

You connect back to Kaye's call and hear her cooing to Kaiden, such a lovely sound.

“Kaye, yes, Rose informs me that I do indeed have a gap in my schedule and it would be a privilege to build Kieran's parents new home.”

“Thank you!!” You hear the relief in her voice.

The Brief:

You need to provide a wheelchair friendly granny annex, so this needs to be another fully functioning residence, with 2 bedrooms (one of which must have an attached bathroom), a separate bathroom, kitchen, dining space and living area.
Kathleen and Kelvin are elderly, so the décor should match accordingly.
You can choose to build on any lot in Willow Creek
Your total cost for this portion of the challenge is $125,000, including the lot cost.

This Week’s Challenge Specifics:
You're struggling with a heavy box on a shelf above your drafting table when you notice a limousine pull up in front of your office building. This momentary distraction causes the box to slide off the shelf, hitting you in the head before spilling out its contents on the floor.

“OW!” You yelp, rubbing the tender spot on your head. You glance out the window again and do a double take when you see two identical couples step out of the limousine, all in wedding attire. How hard did you hit your head? You hurriedly cram the mess on the floor back into the offending box and shove it under your drafting table with your foot, just as Rose opens your office door.

“I know this isn't on the schedule,” Rose says quietly, “but I have two couples in the reception area who need your help. May I bring them in?”

“Of course, Rose!” you reply, striding over to your desk.

Suddenly your office is dwarfed by yards and yards of white organza and tulle as the two identical brides and their twin grooms rush into the office. You'd be convinced you had head trauma and were seeing double if it weren't for the subtle color-coding on each bride and groom. One bride has delicate embroidery and piping on her dress in lilac, while the other's is in aqua. The grooms' bow ties coordinate with the brides' dresses. That's a handy way to tell them apart, you think to yourself. Other than the slight color differentiation, both sets of twins are identical. The women both have pale aquamarine eyes, which are striking against their tawny hair and tanned skin. Their features are exactly the same, right down to the beauty mark beneath their right eyes. The men are tall and athletic, with dark hair and olive skin, eyes the color of chocolate. The lilac bride steps forward and grasps your hand in her satin-gloved hands.

“We apologize for showing up without an appointment, but we're in need of your help. My name is Natalia Gemelli. This is my sister, Bianca, her husband, Paolo, and my beloved husband, Matteo. As you can see, we've just come from our wedding, and now we're in need of a house.” There is a flurry of polite hand-shaking, as you try to remember who's who.

“A house?” you ask, “Or houses?”

“Well, that's just it, you see,” Natalia continues. “My sister and I share a unique bond as twins. We do everything together. We went to the same university, joined the same sorority, and even fell in love with the same set of twins. What we'd like is a duplex, where we can lead separate lives--”

“--but still be near each other,” Bianca finishes.

“All right,” you say. “What did you have in mind for this duplex?”

“Each unit needs to have two bedrooms with en suites, and maybe powder room,” Bianca says. “We like a more open concept where the kitchen, dining room, and living room all flow together.”

“Separate or shared garages are both fine,” Natalia continues, “but we must have a shared outdoor space with a small patio or entertaining area, and we'd really love it if the units could be mirror images in terms of layout.”

“What sorts of styles do you have in mind?” you ask, trying not to get whiplash from the ever-changing conversation.

“Well,” Matteo jumps in, “I'm a bit of a workaholic CEO, and Natalia is on her way to becoming an anchor for the evening news, so we both really like things to be orderly and neat. We prefer a more contemporary style. Not necessarily modern, but clean lines, not a lot of unnecessary clutter. An office area would be fantastic.”

“Bianca and I prefer more of a relaxed, comfortable style,” Paolo says. “She loves to swim, and we both love nature, so natural fibers and colors are more our taste. I'm a photographer. Bianca is a chef, so a great kitchen is a must.”

“Do you all agree on an exterior style?” you ask, your mind already churning with ideas.

“We'd really like to leave that up to you,” Natalia responds. “Whatever style you think could incorporate all of our tastes would be wonderful! As for budget, we've each managed to save $30,000 to put toward a home, so we have a total of $120,000 to spend. Can you help us?”

“Absolutely!” you reply. “When do you need the home completed?”

Matteo glances at his watch. “We're leaving for our joint honeymoon in Isla Paradiso shortly. We'll be there for two weeks and will need a place to call home after that. Is that possible?”

“Of course! I will have a beautiful duplex ready for you in two weeks with twin thresholds over which to carry your brides. Have a wonderful honeymoon!”

BRIEF:
30x30 lot
$120,000 budget
Duplex in a style that incorporates both contemporary and relaxed, natural interior styles
Each unit should have:
2 bedrooms with en suites
Open concept living room, dining room, kitchen
A powder room
Shared outdoor space
Office nook for Matteo and Natalia
Units should mirror each other in layout, but not necessarily in style.

Sims challenge:
Natalia is a family oriented, bookworm whose lifetime aspiration is to become a friend to the world Her husband, Matteo, is outgoing and ambitious, his lifetime aspiration is to become fabulously wealthy. Bianca is a foodie who loves the outdoors, her lifetime aspiration is to become a freelance botanist. Her husband, Paolo, also loves the outdoors and is active, his lifetime aspiration is to become a bodybuilder.

Room Challenge:
This time we want to see what you can do with an outdoor space for the duplex. Please create a shared garden for the two couples. Your budget is $18,000. (You will need to create your garden area on a foundation, to allow you to upload it.)

Rose buzzes through, you put down your latest copy of Dwell and prepare to meet your new clients.

The door opens and you are greeted effusively by a woman with platinum blonde hair and startlingly blue eyes.

"Oh my dear, it's so wonderful to finally meet you!"

Shaking hands you catch the scent of her perfume and find yourself wondering what it is.

"Douglas has told me all about you and your wonderful team, and I find myself in need of an architect and builder."

"Now, I have a very important brief for you, it's not something I have ever seen on Oasis Valley, but it is something that I feel verfy strongly about."

As she catches her breath you go to speak.

"Of...."

"I have noticed a huge number of orphans in the world, who all seem to be sent out on their own to fend for themselves, this seems an atrocious situation to me. Many a time, I have come across an exceedingly large expanse of land, with nought but a tiny little home, which can't hold more than the bare necessities."

"I see." You manage to interject between sentences.

"You created such a wonderful library for Douglas, I simply can't imagine another builder or architect I could entrust such a project to."

"I want you to build an orphanage, but nothing like those austere prison blocks that are prevalent both here and back home in England. Somewhere the children will feel safe and able to learn the lessons of life, as well as abasic education."

You wait patiently for her to start her next sentence, but find her looking at you expectantly.

"So, you want us to build you an orphanage?" Your mind boggles, you have never undertaken such a task before.

"That is correct." She says.

"How many orphans do you want to cater for?" You ask, your mind racing.

"Let's start with 12, shall we, we might have to look at another centre later on though."

"So, a place for 12 orphans, did you want a dormitory style build, or separate bedrooms?"

"Hmmm, a good question, how about a mix of both, a dormitory for four, and bedroom that sleeps two, for both the girls and the boys. Is that acceptable?"

"I think we can manage that. Did I hear you correctly when you said you wanted them to be able to access a basic education at the site?"

"Yes, you did."

"So a classroom or two then?"

"Yes, that would probably be best."

"How about a creche, an early years centre for the children and then a formal classroom for the teenagers?"

"Why that sounds perfect! Oh, there would need to be a couple of spare bedrooms for matrons and so on, and I would like to be able to stay on some occasions."

This job just seemed to keep getting bigger and bigger you think to yourself.

"Oh and a large hall, a multipurpose area, with a kitchen for meal times, assemblies, dances and fundraising events."

"Is there anything else you can think of?" You ask, crossing your fingers that this is the extent of the mammoth task.

"Apart from a swimming pool, no, I think we have covered everything."

"Except the budget." You add.

"Of course, how forgetful of me, let's say a total cost of no more than $650,000 shall we."

Breathing a huge sigh of relief at the funds available you say "Ok Miss Montpellier, I am hopeful that we can get this together for you in two weeks."

"Wonderful, thank you for seeing me this afternoon, and I look forwards to seeing what your team come up with."

The Brief:
Total lot cost, no more than $500,000
50x50 lot in Oasis Valley
Your choice of architecture and style
2 dorm style rooms that sleep four, one for the girls and one for the boys
2 bedrooms that sleep two, one for the girls and one for the boys
3 ensuite double bedrooms, for staff and Miss Montpellier
An office for the Miss Montpellier, which should double as a staff room
A reception area
A large multipurpose hall, with attached kitchen
A creche area
An early years learning space
A formal classroom
Your choice on how many bathrooms and how you locate them (apart from the staff’s rooms)
An indoor pool with changing facilities
Full landscaping

It had been a bit of a long trip, but you have to admit it was worth it. On one side of you a wide river winds its lazy way along. On the other side of you are spacious empty lots fronted by a tree dotted avenue. The area is blissfull quiet. You stop next to a cherry tree and close your eyes, basking in the moment.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” The unexpected sound of Douglas Curtis the III’s voice very nearly makes you climb the tree next to you. After he gets his laughter under control, DC3 claps you on the shoulder. “I didn’t mean to startle you my friend.”

You smile at him, trying to reclaim some dignity. “Its fine. I was starting to doze off I guess.”

“It’s a long way to drive I know, but I hope you’ll find it worth the trouble. Have you had a chance to drive around?” He asks, starting to walk along the river’s edge.

You follow, nodding, “I have. Its a lovely area. There’s a lot of space and plenty of open lots. Which one is yours?”

He grins smugly, “All of them.”

“…All of them?” You stare at him, unsure of what you just heard.

“Yep. 15 lots, situated in 3 neighborhoods.” He gives you the wide, charming mile that he usually gives before handing you a challenge. He runs his fingers through his sun streaked hair before delivering the gauntlet. “I want you to build all 3 neighborhoods.”

Your jaw drops. “You- what?”

“I want you to build up the 3 neighborhoods. A tribute to my generosity to the people of Newcrest,” He says, making a grandiose gesture towards the town center.

The sight of his ego poking its head out makes you relax. This is the DC3 you know and sometimes love. “What did you have in mind Doug?” You asks, pulling out your tablet to make notes.

“Well, Neighborhood 1 has 2 20×15 lots, 2 30×20, and 1 40×30 lot. I intend for this be for low income houses. Starter homes if you wish. Prices ranging from 13750 to 20k, with 0-2 bedrooms. 1 of the 20x15s I would like to be a community garden/ park. The 30x20s I thought would fit multiple row houses, and then maybe the 40×30 could work for an apartment building, or condos. Naturally all housing should have some kind of outdoor space, like a patio or something and landscaping.”

“All of that is feasible,” you state, taking notes feverishly.
He waits till you finish before moving on, “Neighborhood 2 has 3 30×20 lots, 1 40×20 and 1 40×30 lot. I’d like these to be medium income. Single houses on individual lots for more established families looking to move up in the world. 2 to 4 bedrooms with prices ranging from 30-50k.”

“Okay.” you say at last, “And the last neighborhood?”

“Think high income, large generational houses. There are 2 40×30 lots, 1 30×20, 1 30×30, and 1 50×40 lot. I’m thinking at least 4 bedrooms, garages, lots of high end touches. Prices will range between 150-250k. I’d like the 30×20 lot in this neighborhood to be a high class gathering spot.”

He smirks, “So what do you think?”

“I think I’m going to need help.”

“I have utter faith in you,” he says before delivering a wink, “Just don’t work my lovely Rose too hard.”

Neighborhood 2: Established homes
30×20 – single family home, 2-3 bedrooms, 1-2 bathrooms, total lot cost no more than 30k Claimed by @kamb1403 & @lisa17ann
30×20 – Duplex, 2-3 bedrooms per side, 1-2 bathrooms, total lot cost no more than 40k Claimed by @Talea12345 and @Leebeejeebee
30×20 – Single family home, 2-3 bedrooms, 1-2 bathrooms, total lot cost no more than 30k Claimed by @RyeCris16
40×20 lot – Single family home, 2-3 bedrooms, 1-2 bathrooms, total lot cost no more than 40k Claimed by @Cerrydd & @misscbong
40×30 – Single family home, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, total lot cost no more than 50k Claimed by @gmcrozier

Neighborhood 3: Generational Homes
30×20 – High-end community gathering spot, total lot cost no more than 150k Claimed by @pammiechick & @Rawla
30×30 – Single family home, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, total lot cost no more than 150k - Claimed by @Zita1966z & @TwtyBrd0707
40×30 – Single family home, 5 bedrooms, 4+ bathrooms, total lot cost no more than 200k - Claimed by @Green_Girly100 & @superbibi11
40×30 – Single family home, 5 bedrooms, 4+ bathrooms, total lot cost no more than 200k - Claimed by @Don_Oello
50×40 – Single family home, 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, total lot cost no more than 250k - Claimed by @Liziann1 and @benlow11

Entry List

Starting Out

Established

Expert

Results

This was a fun community collaboration. No challenge winners were picked this week due to the vast difference in build requirements for the different lots.

Jade came through your office door with the look of a woman who couldn’t be more pleased with life. After the ritual small talk and a cup of coffee, she jumps into her purpose for being there. “I am incredibly impressed with how you handled the shipping container house. Everything from the design to the décor, to the selling price, was above my expectations. I’ve also received a very long and very happy letter from the purchasers about their new house.”

You smile happily, leaning back in your chair. This kind of thing makes the job worth doing.

Jade sips her coffee before continuing, “I want you to build 3 more houses with shipping containers.”

You blink and sit up, “3? Just like the first? You have more buyers already?”

“No. These are 3 more prototypes. I want each one on a different lot and each one with a different design style. They will also have a different price point. Like the first one, I’ll want you to provide the schematics and files so that we can produce them to order later.” Jade pulls a file folder out of her briefcase and hands it to you. “All the information is in there.” She drinks her coffee, waiting for you to scan the information.

When you’re done, you think for a few moments then look up, “This will be tricky to get done in 2 weeks. Can I have 3?”

“Sure.” Jade stands, putting her cup on the tray. “You have my number if you have any questions. I am looking forward to seeing what you come up with.”

“Me too,” you think, as Rose shows her out.

Requirements:

All lots are to have a layout showing positioning of the containers prior to decorating and landscaping.

FORUM ID: Sorceress
ORIGIN ID: Sorceress2696
LOT: Asian Country Cottage!
LOT COST: 2500 simoleans
BUILD COST: 47,244 simoleans
TOTAL COST: 49,754 simoleans
LINK TO ENTRY SLIDESHOW:
This is a slideshow but it was just the way I put it up! Just still pictures with some music accompanying it!
LINK TO GALLERY:
thesims.com/en_AU/gallery/F8254B2A216111E58E7ABCDE1AAF20A8?category=all&searchtype=ea_origin_id&sortby=newest&time=all&searchquery=Sorceress2696&max=25

Rushing in the office, uncharacteristically late after a very hectic night finishing up final touches on the shipping container homes, you smile gratefully at Rose as she hands you a steaming mug of English Breakfast as you rush in, headed for your desk. "The Franklins are you first appointment. They'll be here any minute."You nod as you locate their file on your desk and begin scanning it, sloshing tea in your haste. Rose hands you a towel to mop up just as the front bell chimes. "Yipes! Give me a few moments them show them in," you tell Rose, frantically trying to straighten your desk and salvage the tea-dampened file.

Rose discretely closes the door, and you hear her warmly greeting the clients and offering them tea. A few minutes later, she introduces Julie and Taylor Franklin, a young, make that very young, couple. Julie smiles shyly and takes a seat while Taylor gives you a firm handshake in greeting.

After some small talk in which you learn the young pair has been living in Taylor's parents' basement, you get down to business. The Franklins inform you that they a small inheritance from Julie's grandparents that they want to make the most of. "Mr. and Mrs. Franklin have given us a small plot of land," Julie adds, smiling at her husband who grins back at her.

"It's small, says Taylor. Just 20x15. But plenty big for the kind of house we want."

You nod as you take notes. 20x15 is small, but you've worked on lots the size before. "It's all about maximizing the space you have," you remark.

"That's exactly what we want to do," says Julie excitedly as she begins to show you pictures she has been collecting. You are momentarily taken aback, thinking you are looking at playhouses for children and not full-fledged grown-up homes.

"Why, they're tiny!" you exclaim in surprise. The Franklins grin back at you in delight, and you realize that they are part of the growing number of people who are choosing to forgo the trend of building big and opting to live in tiny homes.

"Well, this will certainly be interesting" you think to yourself as roll up your sleeves and get to work helping Julie and Taylor design their tiny dream home.

Challenge Brief:
Lot Size - 20x15
Interior floor space can be no more than 50 squares total
Budget - $30,000
Outdoor dining area
Julie likes a cottage style home while Taylor prefers more modern finishes.

Room Challenge - n/a

Sim Challenge - create the Franklins and show them enjoying their tiny space.

Please use hashtag #BnS23 for your uploads.

A reminder, if you wish to provide media for your build to allow us to give you feedback, please ensure that it is in the form of a slideshow. No videos please, as these make the process a lot more cumbersome.

Startled from your closing notes on the Franklin file, you set the file aside and stand to meet Atholl McGregor, a grizzled man dressed in coveralls with stooped shoulders. He shakes your hand with surprising firmness, however. There's still a great deal of strength in the old farmer.

"Good morning," he says gruffly. "I need a new house. The old one is overrun with rabbits, and I've had just about all I can take of it."

"Oh, well, that is a shame," you murmur somewhat taken aback by his directness.

"Ayuh. A pure shame," Mr. McGregor agrees. "There's some what thinks those little buggers is real cute, but I know different. Rabbits are devious. A real menace if you ask me."

Mr. McGregor has apparently been dealing with a different kind of rabbit than you've personally encountered. Trying to get the meeting back on track, you politely ask, "How is it that I can help you?"

"Like I said, I need a new house. I sold the old farm to this lady what's crazy about rabbits. Putter, I think her name was. Nope," he shakes his head and taps his chin in thought, "that weren't it. Potter, maybe? No matter. They're her problem now. I'm moving to Willow Creek. Bought me some land there. And I need you to build me a new house."

"We can certainly do that for you," you assure Mr. McGregor. "Are you retiring, or will you still be farming?"

"Oh, I'll still be farming," he declares with a determined gleam in his eye. "Those rabbits ain't got the best of Atholl McGregor just yet. I want this new garden to be protected though. Can't have a repeat of what went on at the old place."

"Not a problem," you assure the client, making a mental note to do a little more research on rabbits.
"Don't need a large place," he continues. "Just me and the missus now. But we do need a guest room for when the grand kids come to spend the summer. And a separate bath for them as well."

You nod as you jot down notes. "Any other requirements?"

"Well, Mrs. McGregor is none too happy with me right now," he confides. "She's a mite attached to the old place. Don't want to move at all."

You nod, certainly understanding, after having spent some time with her husband, how frustrated Mrs. McGregor might feel right now.

"She's real attached to them flower beds of hers. Just another place for rabbits to hide out if you ask me, but she's right fond of them."

"So you'd like some landscaping around the house?" you ask.

"Ayuh," he agrees. "Make it pretty for her. I think it'll go better for me in the long run that way."

You resist the urge to roll your eyes and continue to chat with Atholl for a while, getting down all the specifics. "We can have this done for you in two weeks," you tell Mr. McGregor as you escort him out of the office.

"That'll do," he says brusquely, and you return to your desk, muttering about rabbits as you go.

FORUM ID: chris2fer03
ORIGIN ID: chris2fer03
LOT: Country Charm
LOT COST: $2,000.00
BUILD COST: $57,917.00
TOTAL COST: $59,917.00
LINK TO ENTRY SLIDESHOW: s1290.photobucket.com/user/chris2fer03/slideshow/Country%20Charm
CREDIT FOR CC/RECOLORS: None. However, I would like to credit @BryonyRae for her basement spaces tutorial and her use of the glass display case as seamless glass rooms. I was able to create a greenhouse potting shed using her tutorial. Thanks Bry!